It's legislation he's considered since taking office, the San Antonio Democrat said in a press release. The study could help lawmakers “better utilize education funds in a more efficient manner,” he said.

He represents House District 119, which encompasses part of Bexar County.

The press release notes lawmakers have been reluctant to restore more than $5.4 billion in cuts they made to public education in 2011.

TEA spokeswoman Debbie Ratcliffe said Wednesday that while bills are regularly filed to consolidate school districts, “it's been a very long time since one passed.”

She added that she can't take a position on a bill.

“Generally, people believe that administrative efficiencies could be achieved with consolidation,” Ratcliffe said. “But others have concerns about a loss of a community identity.”

Although 16 school districts is a high number, “every urban county in Texas has multiple school districts,” Ratcliffe said.